This is the first time we are posting tasting notes on a drop of liquid gold from the Fettercairn distillery. It is well-known that the northern flanks of the Grampians is full of distilleries, which spill down to the Spey, however, the southern slopes are somewhat depleted. Fettercairn stands as its sole survivor. The Fettercairn distillery was founded in the 1842, as a farm distillery on the Fasque Estate and was bought by one Sir John Gladstone and remained in family hands until 1939. It has been bought, sold and mothballed serval times, but today it is part of Whyte & Mackay. This 28-year-old expression is has been matured in ex-bourbon casks and bottled at 42% abv, this addition to the revamped core range features striking new packaging with the Ramsay clan unicorn in a copper ring.
On the nose: you’ll be welcomed by notes of raisins, sugarcane, vanilla, poached pears and a waft of pineapple. Spicy notes of black pepper and cinnamon start to appear, alongside notes of banana, maple syrup and marzipan. Completing the nose are notes of apples, strawberries, honey, ginger and hint of lemon zest and walnuts. On the palate: there is an initial flourish of pineapple, raisins, brown sugar and vanilla. These are closely followed by notes of cinnamon, liqourice and maple syrup. Notes of lemon zest and orchard fruits start to emerge, as well as orange peel and creme brûlée. Rounding-off the palate are notes of lemon zest, walnuts and a hint of thyme and rosemary. The finish: is medium/long, bittersweet, with orange peel, lingering oak and a hint of pepper.
The verdict: I believe this is the first time we’ve tried a drop of liquid gold from the Fettercairn distillery and it’s suffice to say we were pleasantly surprised. The 28yo expression is a robust dram with tonnes of depth in flavour and a nice balance of sweet and spicy. With an ABV of 42%, it doesn’t require any water in my opinion. Though if you feel the need to, then do so until it’s just right for you.
Fettercairn 28 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky can be picked up for approximately £550 online or at any well-stocked whisky shop.
For more information on This 28-year-old expression, visit the official Fettercairn website.
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